If the Magpies want to record their second consecutive win, a feat unaccomplished thus far this season, they will need to hold Port’s revitalised forward line led by veteran Warren Tredrea.
The 30-year-old is averaging a career-high in goals per game (3.2) and has featured as his side’s leading goal contributor in seven games (includes consecutive games of six goals each). He has only played in two of the last four matches against the Magpies (held scoreless in round four 2007 against James Clement and kicked two on Simon Prestigiacomo in round five 2006).
Livewire Daniel Motlop has kicked three or more goals on four occasions this year and can arguably be considered the barometer of the club, with the Power winning three of four matches. He is averaging a career high in disposals (15) in his ninth season in the AFL. Motlop missed the last two encounters with the Magpies and was held scoreless by James Clement in round five 2006.
Rising young forward Robert Gray has kicked 11 goals this year and has kicked two or more goals in four matches this season resulting in four wins for his side. The 184-centimetre forward has played 24 games in three seasons and was up against Tyson Goldsack in round 20 last year and kicked one goal.
25-year-old Brett Ebert has averaged three goals against the Magpies in his last three matches. The 107-game small forward has the potential to wreak havoc with his ability to win his own ball while contributing on the scoreboard. Harry O’Brien had the job on Ebert in last year’s win and held the forward to two goals.
What do you think are the best matchups down back for the Magpies? Who should Simon Prestigiacomo play on? Who does Nathan Brown lock down? Is there a match-up for every defender or does the match committee need to make a change?
Have your say on this week’s Magpie Blog
